The Body in Power
- Life Drawing

Course details
Dates
24 October – 21 November 2025
Times
10:00 – 17:00
Duration
5 sessions
Fees
£287.00 Concessions available
Location
Shoreditch studios

Overview
Across history—from Goya’s Disasters of War to Spero’s radical resistance collages—artists have used the human form to reflect societal structures and collective struggles. Through observational drawing, and historical analysis, participants will deepen their engagement of the body and its relation to power in society. A key feature will be working with a life model, allowing students to explore gesture, composition, and figuration while reflecting on the cultural and historical narratives embedded in representation.
Who is it for
Suitable for artists and creatives of all abilities, though some drawing experience is recommended.
What’s provided
For studio courses, easels, drawing boards, charcoal, newsprint and masking tape are provided in the studios for free. There is an added paper fee included at the time of booking which covers the use of cartridge and watercolour paper that is provided in the studios. Any other materials you would like to use please bring with you; we will send out a suggested material list before the start of your course.
What to bring
You are encouraged to bring your own additional materials for personal use only, to the studio. This is an example list of what may be needed; a full material lists will be provided one week before your course begins. Our suggestions include:
- Drawing Pencils
- Conté Crayons
- Pastels
- Ink Pens
- Coloured Pencils
- Putty and Hard Erasers
- Pencil Sharpener
- Sketchbook
Concessions
We offer a range of discounts. To apply, email admin@royaldrawingschool.org with the required proof. Please wait for confirmation before booking.
Available discounts
- NHS Staff: 20%
Send a photo of your NHS staff badge. - Full-time Fine Art BA Students: 75%
Students on design or applied arts degrees may also be eligible. Send your student ID and proof of enrolment. - Primary and Secondary Art Teachers: 50%
Send a letter from your headteacher or head of art department. - Jobseekers: 50%
Send a recent DWP or JobCentre Plus letter confirming you receive Jobseeker’s Allowance or Universal Credit (if out of work). Appointment booklets are not accepted. - Disability Benefit Recipients: 50%
Send proof that you currently receive this allowance. - Tower Hamlets and Hackney Residents: 25% (Shoreditch courses only)
Send a copy of your most recent council tax bill. - Tower Hamlets and Hackney Businesses: 25% (Shoreditch courses only)
Send a staff ID, business card or a letter from your line manager. - Over 60s: 10%
Send a photo ID as proof of age. - Alumni: Postgraduate Programme or Foundation Year: 50% off short courses
Online Drawing Development Year: 50% off online short courses
Before you apply
- Documents must be dated within the last 6 months (or 12 months for council tax)
- Your name must be clearly visible
- Accepted file formats: PDF, JPG, DOC or DOCX
All our courses are subsidised.
Tutors